Typha angustifolia (Aquatic) (Lesser Cattail) - Lesser Cattail is an erect, rhizomatous perennial that grows 3 to 6 feet tall with leaves that are very narrow, and flattened. Flowers grow on erect stalks, and the fruits are cigar-shaped and 2 to 6 inches long. Fruits contain soft, downy seeds. In this species, the staminate and pistillate flowers are separated by a gap of up to 2 inches of stalk, females appear below the males. Leaves emerge in the spring, flowering is initiated in early to mid-summer, and the greatest clonal growth occurs in the fall. Spreads by lateral rhizomes produced at the leaf base. Under good conditions, seeds germinate from May to September. Plant in full sun or part shade in marshy soil or under water up to 3 feet deep. The Lesser cattail occurs from Nova Scotia south through parts of New England along the coast to southern Florida. It occurs in the Midwest and is found in scattered populations throughout Nebraska and Wyoming, parts of the Intermountain West, and along the Pacific Northwest coast into central California. Also known as the narrow-leaved cattail. Commonly crosses with Typha latifolia in the wild and gives rise to the hybrid Typha x glauca. Cold hardy to less than 15° F.
This description is based on research and observations made of this plant as it grows in our nursery, in our nursery garden and in other gardens that we have visited. We also try to incorporate comments received from others and appreciate getting feedback of any kind from those who have any additional information about this plant, particularly if they disagree with what we have written or if they have additional cultural tips that would aid others in growing Typha angustifolia.